UNICEF NZ (United Children’s Fund)
Media Release
Thursday 26 July, 2012

UNICEF NZ Supports Paid Parental Leave Bill

UNICEF NZ (UN Children’s Fund) has given its full backing to the Bill to extend paid parental leave from 14 to 26 weeks.

Speaking after the launch of ‘26 for Babies’ today (a campaign to support the Bill) Dennis McKinlay, Executive Director, at UNICEF NZ said, “There is nothing more important for an infant than being nurtured, breastfed and helped to understand the world around them through the loving support of those who care most for them.

“There is a strong body of evidence that investment made in infant care in the early months of a child’s life, can avoid huge costs in remedial services later on. Attachment, bonding and a secure environment help with good brain development, as well as a strong foundation for a healthier life.

“The jury is well in on this - families, infants and wider society all benefit from parents having the time off work to spend with a new baby.

“With the Bill now going to a Select Committee we have an important opportunity to discuss the facts about costs, savings and benefits and to look at the important role that parents and children play in nation building. It’s also a chance to show how government and employers can work together to give value to parenting and to the new generation of taxpayers, consumers, entrepreneurs and leaders.”

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About UNICEF
UNICEF is on the ground in over 190 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive, from early childhood through adolescence.

The world’s largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS.

UNICEF is a charity funded entirely by the voluntary contributions of individuals, businesses, foundations and governments.

Every $1 donated to us is worth at least $10 in the field thanks to the way we work in partnership with governments, local NGOs and other partners - www.unicef.orgnz
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